Benefits of an advance directive

Benefits of an advance directive

Clear communication is essential in a medical emergency. An advance directive empowers individuals to do just that, ensuring their medical wishes are known and respected if they are ever unable to make decisions themselves.

An advance directive provides valuable guidance for medical professionals, allowing them to provide care that aligns with your values and goals. It also lessens the burden for family members who may otherwise have to make difficult treatment decisions on your behalf.

Advance directive is an umbrella term encompassing various documents, each addressing different aspects of care, including:

Healthcare Power of Attorney (POA): This document appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated.

Living Will: A living will specifies your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial respiration or tube feeding, in the event of a terminal illness or permanent unconscious state.

Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) Order: A DNR is a specific directive requesting that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) not be attempted if your heart stops or you stop breathing.

Once completed, advance directives should be given to healthcare providers and family, as well as the person named as the POA agent. Decisions made through these directives are in place forever unless the person who created the documents revokes them.

Horizon Health provides advance directive planning at no cost. Talk to your primary care provider for more information. Learn more at MyHorizonHealth.org/AdvanceDirective.